The debate is intensifying over who will lead Al Ahly’s first team in their upcoming crucial match against Pharco, scheduled for the final round of the Egyptian Premier League on Wednesday, May 28, at 8 PM.

So far, Al Ahly has not officially confirmed the appointment of Spanish coach José Rivero, leaving the door open for Emad El Nahas to continue leading the team for this decisive encounter.

Rivero has refused the continued presence of El Nahas as assistant coach, preferring to have only one Egyptian coach on his staff. However, Mahmoud El Khatib, the club’s president, insists on keeping El Nahas due to his experience and influential role in the team, and is currently working to convince Rivero during ongoing meetings before any official announcement regarding Rivero.

On the competition front, Al Ahly tops the league table with 55 points, two points ahead of Pyramids FC.

Details of Rivero’s contract with Al Ahly indicate that he will receive the highest salary in his coaching career, surpassing his previous earnings at South African club Orlando Pirates, where he coached since 2022 and achieved notable successes, including winning three consecutive MTN 8 titles and qualifying for the CAF Champions League group stage.

Rivero, 48, bases his training on the 4-2-3-1 formation, blending European tactical discipline with individual skills. He has previously coached teams in Spain, Finland, and South Africa, managing 232 matches with a 59% win rate.

The current situation reflects the first disagreement between El Khatib and Rivero, with the club president insisting on El Nahas remaining on the technical staff for his experience and support, while Rivero prefers to form his own team.

Al Ahly is currently in a critical waiting phase to decide who will lead the coaching staff for the last match, with strong expectations that Emad El Nahas will continue until an official announcement is made about the new coach.